Magistrate Court

Chief Judge: Baxter Howell

The Magistrate Court has jurisdiction to issue warrants for all criminal offenses, hold committal hearings, issue citations for bad checks and violations of zoning ordinances, and issue good behavior bonds. The Magistrate Court also has civil jurisdiction on cases up to $15,000.00 if exclusive jurisdiction is not vested in the Superior Court. Garnishments may also be filed in the Magistrate Court. The Magistrate Court issues subpoenas to compel attendance of witnesses, conducts hearings and trials and, when requested, Magistrates serve as judges in other Courts. Magistrates also perform wedding ceremonies.